| Matt Wessel Music.com |
| Matt's Journal Mar 23 2003 Well, let's just say that the pattern continues. CFL 2001: 600 people; 6,000 dollars ... CFL 2002: 800 people; 8,000 dollars ... CFL 2003: 1,000 people; 10,000 dollars. That's right, last night's 3rd Annual Concert For Life at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Gurnee, IL brought in over 10,000 dollars for the American Cancer Society. I don't know the final total yet, but as soon as I do, I'll let you know. For me, the night was a blur, and so much fun. As usual, I left the church after the soundcheck about an hour before showtime. I like to remove myself from the environment for a while before the show to calm my nerves (and to change into some appropriate clothes). When I drove back to St. Paul's at about 6:40 (20 minutes before showtime), the line of cars trying to get into the parking lot was amazing. I had to park insanely far from the church (good problem to have, though). As soon as I stepped into the church, I was overcome with a rush of energy. Seeing all of the people gathered, talking, laughing ... it was just so exciting. I quickly headed to the "collection room" (the room where they count all of the money from the collections taken at Mass) to collect myself, drink some water, and pray with all of the performers. Then it was show time. As Sarah started her loooooong introduction to the night (sorry, Sarah), I couldn't help but look around the church and smile as I saw every section of the building filled. The only open spots were deep in the West corner of the church. Last year, this entire section had not a single body in it. So I smiled. I smiled because I was about to do what I love and was about to do it in front of my family, my friends, my colleagues, my community, and some complete strangers. The concert went by too fast. I always get nervous when I'm talking, especially in the beginning. I'm always fearful that I'll forget what I wanted to say or that no one will laugh at my jokes (I try to interject a lot of humor into the show). It was brought to my attention that someone who attended last year's show (and this year's as well) told Warren High School teachers that I should try and be "less sarcastic". Now, if you haven't been to one of my shows, then you wouldn't be able to understand how absurd this statement is. The music I write is very inspirational and hopeful, but at times very saddening. In order to keep the mood somewhat positive and energetic, I use humor whenever and wherever I can. Often times, this humor comes by means of sarcasm. The fact that someone would actually request that I NOT be funny is just mind-boggling. I could never imagine doing a show without making people laugh and smile. Needless to say, last night's show was filled with laughter. I think the best part of the night was before I played "God's Chosen One" when I asked all of the people in the audience who have cancer or who once had cancer to stand. We all applauded these individuals as we recognized them as inspirations and "chosen ones" of God. I was a little hesitant to do that at first, but looking back on it, I'm glad that I did. We need to remember that while cancer produces many sad and tragic stories of early death, it also produces many stories of survival and hope. Last night's show went a little long. I think I finished playing around 9:50. Last year's show was done at about 9:25. I'm not sure if people were getting antsy to leave, but I just had too many songs to play! I even cut two songs from the playlist: Pure Inspirations and 13th Emerald. I think the funniest part of last night's show was when three friends of mine and myself dressed as umpires and sang "You're Out! (Ode to the Umpire) (a.k.a. the Baseball Song). We made fools of ourselves, but the crowd seemed to like it. We even threw in some harmonies. All in all, it was a fun night. It was an honor, as always, for me to be able to play for such a large audience and for such a worthy cause. If I could do that every weekend, I would (every night would kill me ... I was soooo tired last night ... I slept well). Thank you to all who attended. Thank you for supporting the American Cancer Society, Warren FBLA, and my music. I do have to make an apology to my mom and Fr. Farrell and Fr. Ray. I forgot to thank you guys during my "thank you speech". With out you, the night would not have been possible. So thank you. As always, thank for reading and keep on listening! |